Tomas to sack enforcer caught counterflowing

CEBU, Philippines —  A traffic enforcer of Cebu City is on the verge of losing his job after being caught counterflowing last Wednesday.

Mayor Tomas Osmeña said he will terminate the enforcer to serve as a warning to others.

The mayor though has yet to get the enforcer’s name.

“Because so many people are asking for hangyo. So, I’m setting the example. As if they (enforcers) don’t know the law. They are implementing the law. Naunsa mana. I don’t need them,” he said.

Osmeña said he will not allow any excuses from traffic enforcers under his watch, saying he will not think twice about laying off erring government workers.

 “This is a bad image for the entire CITOM. Exempted sila? No. Samot. In my watch, you’re guilty until you prove your innocence,” he said.

“I gave the warning already. Now’s public execution,” he added in jest.

CTTO Operations Chief Francisco Ouano said the enforcer, name withheld pending his comment, is a casual employee.

According to Ouano, the enforcer has been in the service for more than 10 years.

The enforcer was caught counterflowing on General Maxilom Avenue corner E. Chavez Street.

Ouano said the enforcer was on a day off when he committed the violation which is “intolerable.”

“No one is above the law. Kon nag-uniform siya atong time-a pwede siguro nato mapasaylo kay basin og naay dasmag or naay emergency. Ingon ana man gud, kita ang nagpatuman. Kahibaw sila nga strikto kaayo ta,” he said.

CTTO has impounded thousands of motorcycles and vehicles for 30 days for violating the city’s anti-counterflow measure since February 5.

This is in consonance with Osmeña’s Executive Order No. 34 or the order declaring reckless driving pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act 4136 (Traffic Code of the Philippines), City Ordinance No. 801, and other existing traffic rules and regulations nuisance per se. —KBQ (FREEMAN)